How do I become a laboratory assistant
Get qualified to work as a laboratory assistant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Laboratory Assistant.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Laboratory Assistant generally earns $1,100 per week ($57,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
This industry has seen stable employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 6,200 people working in this area in Australia and many of them specialise as a Laboratory Assistant. Laboratory Assistants usually work in larger towns and cities where laboratory facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
If you’re interested in a career as a Laboratory Assistant, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Science (Biology). This course covers a range of topics including laboratory safety, working in the field, solving mathematical problems, using maths to solve scientific problems and preparing for further study.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
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7th December 2021
What can you do with a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance?
8th January 2020All laboratory assistant courses
- 22441VIC Certificate III in Science
- 22442VIC Certificate IV in Science (Biology)
- 22608VIC Certificate IV in Science
- AHC32116 Certificate III in Commercial Seed Processing
- AHC33516 Certificate III in Seed Testing
- BSBWHS332X Apply Infection Prevention and Control Procedures to Own Work Activities
- Diploma in Science
- FBP30921 Certificate III in Wine Industry Operations
- FBP30921 Certificate III in Wine Industry Operations (Cellar Operations)
- HLTSS00059 Venous Blood Collection Skill Set
- MSL20122 Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement
- MSL30122 Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
- MSL50122 Diploma of Laboratory Technology
- MSM20116 Certificate II in Process Manufacturing
- NWP30222 Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Treatment: Water and Wastewater)
- PMA20116 Certificate II in Process Plant Operations
Laboratory Assistant careers
A Laboratory Assistant performs a range of tasks in a scientific or medical testing laboratory. You might work in the laboratory of a large organisation such as a hospital or be employed at a specialist research facility. Laboratory Assistants may collect samples, carry out a range of tests and present information on their findings. You might use specialist equipment as part of your role.
Laboratory Assistants should be able to conduct accurate work and follow correct procedures at all times. Attention to detail is important and you’ll need to have good observational abilities. Laboratory Assistants should be safety focused and able to work in a team. You’ll need to be organised and be able to manage your time well.
